Dida Leaves Milan

byPhilip MboyaonJuly 2, 2010

Brazilian Goal keeper Nelson Dida has officially left AC Milan. This comes as no surprise considering the fact that he spent most of last season warming the bench. However, there is no doubt that he will be dearly missed.Aside from all the blunders and errors he was known for, Dida is one of the club’s most successful goalies.

In his 10 years with the Diavolo, Dida won the Uefa Champions League twice, two FIFA World Club Championships and the Serie A title.

“Today is the first day after 10 years, that I live as a former Rossoneri player,” Dida told the club’s official website, ACMilan.it. “I wanted to wait until the end of my contract to say goodbye to the fans that have been close to me throughout this time.

“With them, we have gone through both good and bad times, but won everything.

“A big thank you also goes to president Silvio Berlusconi, to vice-president Adriano Galliani and sporting director Ariedo Braida. Without them, I would never have had this worthwhile opportunity.

“There are many people I also want to thank: my team-mates that I have had, the directors and the staff here at Milanello. But a special thank you goes to [Chelsea coach] Carlo Ancelotti, as he was the person who allowed me to play for this fantastic side.

“There are many others that I want to thank, and do so from the bottom of my heart. Forza Milan!”

Dida’s successor is likely to be Christian Abbiati who was often the regular goalie for most of last season. New signing Marco Amelia on loan from Genoa is also expected to feature in the Rossoneri’s early campaigns as new coach Massimiliano Allegri tries to find his winning formula.